Shamika Returns Home to Ignite Uganda International Badminton Challenge

By Kayiira Jackson 

The Uganda International Badminton Challenge served off in today at the Lugogo Indoor Stadium in Kampala, attracting a record 286 players from 39 countries in a championship that runs until 22nd February.

This year’s edition has drawn a strong international field, with countries such as India, Australia, South Africa, Egypt, Algeria, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada among those represented. Hosts Uganda have entered 50 players, while India leads the pack with 80 participants — the largest contingent at the tournament.

Despite several Ugandan players bowing out at the qualification stage on the opening day, many described the experience as invaluable.

“This championship is important to players,” said Uganda Badminton Association CEO Simon Mugabi. “It has started today at Lugogo and will climax on Sunday. This is a points-rewarding tournament, and that is why we have attracted such a huge number of participants this year.”

The tournament carries crucial international ranking points, making it a key fixture on the global badminton calendar and a major opportunity for players to improve their standings.

All eyes will now turn to Uganda’s golden girl, Fadilah Shamika Mohamed Rafi, who is set to make her first appearance at this year’s championship on Thursday. Fresh from clinching gold at the All Africa Senior Badminton Championships in Gaborone, Botswana, Shamika begins her campaign against Nigeria’s Ruth Chinenye Ebere in the women’s singles.

Speaking ahead of her opening match, Shamika expressed confidence despite admitting fatigue following her recent continental triumph.

“I am playing a Nigerian; I played her before and I think I am going to maintain and win the match,” Shamika said. “I am still fatigued and recovering from the All Africa Championship since I had to play until the final. I am not getting enough rest, but I will take care of myself and manage my recovery before tomorrow’s games.”

Shamika will be joined in the main draw by fellow Ugandan Gladys Mbabazi, who faces a daunting test against India’s top seed Upadhaya in the women’s singles. However, Uganda’s male players fell short of securing spots in the main draws after the qualification rounds.